The Federal Government has launched a high-level diplomatic offensive to secure Nigeria’s removal from the [suspicious link removed] “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) list, following a strategic meeting in Abuja between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and American officials.
Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, David Heffern, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
The discussions covered a broad spectrum of bilateral interests, primarily focusing on the controversial CPC designation.
The CPC label, managed by the U.S. Department of State, identifies nations that allegedly permit severe violations of religious freedom. U.S. President Donald Trump designated Nigeria in 2025, citing a failure to protect citizens from systematic religious persecution.
This listing was historically driven by reports of violence involving Boko Haram and militias in the Middle Belt.
Nigeria, however, argues that this label ignores the government’s significant progress in regional security and interfaith protection.
Strategic Cooperation and Joint Working Groups
During the session, the two diplomats examined security and defence collaborations. They also tackled complex issues including border control, migration challenges, and counter-terrorism initiatives.
Furthermore, the talks extended to intelligence sharing and visa matters. Ambassador Ojukwu revealed that both nations are utilizing a Joint Working Group to address the underlying issues tied to the religious freedom concerns.
“It was a very constructive engagement with U.S.A Charge d’Affaires, David Heffern and our discussions centered on matters of security and defence, border and migration challenges, counter-terrorism initiatives, intelligence sharing, visa issues and various other matters of mutual interest between our countries,” she stated.
The Minister confirmed that the CPC status remains a priority for the Tinubu administration. She noted that the government is committed to ensuring Washington sees the reality of Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape.
Commitment to Reversing the CPC Label
Ambassador Ojukwu expressed confidence in the ongoing bilateral dialogue. She believes that deepened cooperation will eventually lead to a more favourable assessment of Nigeria’s human rights record.
“We also discussed our collaborations within the Joint Working Group, measures to promote stability within the region as well as Nigeria’s CPC (Country of Particular Concern) designation by the United States,” the Minister added.
Meanwhile, she assured that the Federal Government would continue to “engage on the necessary measures and collaborations needed to reverse this designation” while working to strengthen long-term relations.
The CPC status can lead to economic sanctions or the withdrawal of certain forms of aid. Consequently, the government is eager to prove that its counter-insurgency efforts effectively protect both Christians and Muslims alike.
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